Isabel Hodgson says Adelaide United agonisingly missing out on a maiden finals appearance last season still hurts and will serve as motivation in 2021/22.
The Reds experienced a record-breaking campaign last year but missed out on an inaugural finals berth by one goal.
Hodgson said at the Liberty A-League 2021/22 Season Launch that reaching a top-four finish remains a burning desire.
“Obviously aspirations is finals football,” Hodgson said, as she enters her seventh campaign with the Reds.
“I think because we came so close last year, we’re still a little bit hurt about it and it’s kind of a motivation for us to not let it happen again.
“I think for everyone it’s still in the back of our minds, knowing that we did so well but it wasn’t enough.”
The 25-year-old was confident that despite a number of new faces in the squad, the core group of players from last season has virtually stayed the same.
“We’ve got some new players coming in,” she said.
“But luckily, we have a lot of the core group still there, and obviously the same coach, Adrian (Stenta) is back.
“I think that’s important to have that core group of players who did play last year but obviously adding fresh players is always good – it makes the team a bit stronger.”
Adelaide have a big test first up to begin the new season on Sunday afternoon when they face a Melbourne Victory side, who were crowned champions last season.
The defender was embracing the prospect of a tough contest.
“It’s always good to start with the best team,” she said.
“They won last year but we’re ready for the challenge.
“Obviously playing away is always difficult, but we’re ready for it and we’ve a really good pre-season.”
Match details:
Sunday, 5 December vs Melbourne Victory Women
A-League Women 2021/22 – Round 1
Kick-off 3.35pm ACDT
Venue: AAMI Park
Broadcast: 10 Bold
Stream: Paramount+
